How to stop chafing: 6 ways to soothe sore thighs

Chafing, or ‘chub rub’, as it’s often affectionately known, is a universal problem when the temperatures begin to soar, and despite the nickname, women (and men!) of all shapes and sizes can be affected.

The issue is caused when bare skin begins to sweat and rubs against other areas of the body – generally between your legs – leaving your skin feeling red, irritated, and painful. However, the good news is that there are plenty of solutions out there to deal with chafing, and they’re all inexpensive, easy to obtain and most importantly, super effective.

Here’s six answers to the eternal question ‘how to stop chafing – fast!’ Now repeat after us: I WILL wear that skirt this summer.

Deodorant

According to the internet, you can achieve fab results with your normal stick or roll-on deodorant, as it eliminates sweat from the offending area, and therefore preventing that painful rubbing. You’ll probably need to reapply the deodorant a couple of times a day if you’re active, but if you’re in a pinch, it does the trick and can keep you comfortable whilst you’re out and about. If your skin in sensitive, use sparingly, as it can be quite drying; treat deodorant as a handy trick to have up your sleeve just in case, not a full-time option.

Anti-moisture powder

Image: Lush
Lush Silky Underwear, pictured above, is a jasmine scented powder-based product that contains cocoa butter, helping to absorb sweat and keep you dry and chafe-free while still keeping skin soft and supple, and it’s a favourite for many chafe sufferers. However, if you’re on a budget, others report that you can use good old talcum powder, and it’ll be equally effective.

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Image: Run Haven
Gel formulas provide a barrier between your skin, and well… more skin, creating a reduction in friction that can make chafing much more manageable on those hot, sticky days. Body Glide, which was originally developed for runners, is a popular choice, as are Lanacane Anti-Chafing Gel and Monistat Chafing Relief Complete Care Relief Powder Gel, although you’ll have to order the latter online, as it’s only widely available in the US.

Shapewear shorts

Image: Debenhams
Realistically, you’re probably not going to want to spend the whole summer sucked into an eye-wateringly tight pair of Spanx, but a light control pair of shapewear shorts worn under a dress or skirt can kick chafing to the curb for good. Marks and Spencer, Next and Debenhams all have a good range of options – invest in one pair first to see if you find them comfortable, and then expand your collection.

Tortz

Image: Tortz
Tortz are a more lightweight alternative to full-on shapewear. They’re essentially shorts made from a similar material to tights, with silicone backing on the bands to prevent them from riding up. They come in a range of colours to suit different outfits, and would be great for a special occasion like a wedding, when you want a prettier solution to your inner thigh pain.

Bandelettes

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Image: Bandelettes
Smaller still are Bandelettes; delicate-looking strips of lace that wrap around your thighs and stay in place to protect them all day. Ideal if you don’t like the restrictive feeling of full short structure, Bandelettes are more like lingerie than many of the other option on the market, and many users say they often forget they’re even wearing them. They’re an American company but they do ship worldwide, so be sure to place your order before the warmer weather arrives!